Whether you’ve recently graduated from a bachelor’s program or are exploring new career options in counseling or education, school counseling offers a rewarding path forward. Becoming a school counselor is a way to effect true change in students’ lives and educational institutions. As a school counselor, you can work with children, adolescents, and families, helping students navigate social skills, mental health challenges, academic and career planning, the college application process, and more.

The path to school counselor certification requires graduate study in a reputable program. However, you no longer have to live close to your top-choice school to earn your graduate degree. Online school counseling programs provide another way for you to gain the advanced training you need to create a positive impact — regardless of where you live or your other life commitments. 

But is earning a master’s in school counseling online right for you? Consider the following points based on your goals and circumstances.

You’ll be exposed to diverse perspectives, backgrounds and life stages.

One of the greatest benefits of online school counseling programs is student diversity. While in-person programs also draw students of all ages and backgrounds, online programs are likely to attract students from all over the nation at various stages of their careers. For example, Teachers College’s online students include current educators, career changers with backgrounds in business, and recent graduates from a variety of bachelor’s programs. Many online students reside in areas outside of New York City, spanning across New York and the United States.

This diversity in career experience, age and region gives you exposure to perspectives you might not otherwise have, providing you with insights you can use in your future career. Classmates from rural areas, inner cities, or different states, for example, can speak to the unique needs of their students. Some classmates may have experience working with young children; some may have experience working with parents. Others may be closer in age to the students you’ll be serving, offering first-hand knowledge of the issues people in that age group face.

All of these perspectives are invaluable in shaping your understanding of education, student needs, and how you can adapt your approach to different populations or institutions. If learning from peers is important to you, respected online school counseling programs can provide that opportunity. 

Earning your master’s in school counseling online can broaden your career opportunities — regardless of where you live.

Full-time work and other commitments are too often a barrier for adults considering pursuing an in-person master’s in school counseling program. An online format allows you to work toward school counseling certification at a reputable institution without having to commute. The right online school counseling program will ensure the same caliber of quality as its in-person alternative, setting you apart as a job or Ph.D. program candidate.

This flexibility can help you take the next step in your career — and help fill a critical need in our nation. Schools throughout the United States at every grade level (K-12) need competent, social justice-oriented school counselors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for school and career counselors is projected to grow five percent through 2032, which is a rate faster than average for all occupations. With the multifaceted challenges K-12 learners face, well-trained school counselors can make a significant difference in students’ academic, personal, and social development.

Earning a school counseling degree helps educators build their capacity to provide additional social and emotional support to their students beyond the classroom. It can also offer career changers a way to harness their skills in new ways, whether those include interpersonal, counseling or psychology. If you want to broaden your career opportunities while supporting children and adolescents, earning your master’s in school counseling online provides an avenue to do so.

Online master’s in school counseling programs provide a layer of flexibility.

In addition to accessibility, online programs offer flexibility in coursework, lectures and other learning opportunities. Some online school counseling graduate programs are delivered asynchronously, meaning you’ll learn at your own pace without live lectures or feedback. 

Others, like the one at Teachers College, incorporate both asynchronous and synchronous (live) learning opportunities. At Teachers College, the online school counseling program includes asynchronous lectures and assignments you complete on your schedule throughout the week. This self-guided learning allows you to choose the time that works for you based on your work schedule and other commitments. 

However, many of our online classes also feature a live component to reinforce course concepts and allow you to connect with your peers and instructors. In courses with a synchronous format, you’ll attend class online, once a week, via Zoom, for a total of around 2 hours of live learning every week. 

One critical aspect of the program is the opportunity to practice and receive live feedback on your counseling skills. This live application of theory to practice is crucial to building your competence as a school counselor, illustrating how to adapt to changing situations and refine your counseling skills. 

Additionally, Teachers College professors hold virtual office hours to extend support outside of class or practicum. Our program also features a cohort model to further facilitate strong connections within the program.

Earning your master’s in school counseling online requires drive, commitment and initiative.

While an online program poses numerous benefits, staying on top of your studies can also feel isolating and challenging. Virtual learning can also create fatigue and distractions. To thrive in an online program, you’ll need to be intentional about creating connections with your peers, professors and advisors, and be proactive about seeking support. You’ll also need to be a self-starter and set aside an appropriate amount of time for your coursework each week. 

However, with these efforts and consistent communication with your professors, you’ll be well on your way to success in an online environment. 

Make True Change as a School Counselor with an Ed.M. from Teachers College

Learn more about our program and how you can contribute to educational change. Explore the Online Ed.M. in School Counseling or apply today.